How to Identify Your Security System’s Notification System
When filling out your Fortify Form after purchasing your Fortify Plan, it’s important to document the various interior spaces in your home. Each room serves a unique purpose and may require different security and privacy considerations. From studios to lofts and pantries to home offices, knowing which spaces exist in your home will help tailor your Fortify Plan to meet your specific needs. Here’s a breakdown of common interior spaces to help you complete your Fortify Form accurately.
1. Studio
A studio typically refers to an open-concept living space without distinct rooms separating the living, dining, and bedroom areas. Studios are commonly found in smaller homes and apartments, and they often combine several functions into one room.
Studio Considerations:
- Security and privacy may be simpler in a studio due to the lack of internal doors.
- It’s important to secure entry points, such as the front door and any balcony or patio doors.
If your home includes a studio space, make sure to note this in your Fortify Form.
2. Entryway/Foyer
The entryway or foyer is the first area you encounter when entering the home. It acts as a welcoming space and can serve as a buffer between the outside and inside.
Entryway/Foyer Considerations:
- The entryway often connects to the living room or other common areas, so it’s important to secure the front door and ensure this space is well-lit.
- If you have a foyer, consider adding a small table or storage for easy access to keys or security systems.
Make sure to include the entryway or foyer in your Fortify Form for personalized security recommendations.
3. Living Room
The living room is the central gathering space in many homes, often used for relaxation and entertainment. It’s typically connected to other areas like the kitchen or dining room.
Living Room Considerations:
- Make sure windows in the living room are properly secured with locks or coverings.
- If the living room has a direct entry point to the patio or balcony, be sure to secure that door.
If your home has a living room, be sure to note this in your Fortify Form.
4. Dining Area
The dining area is often connected to the kitchen or living room and is a space designated for meals. It can be part of an open-concept layout or a separate room.
Dining Area Considerations:
- Like the living room, the dining area may have windows or a patio door, which should be secured.
- For homes with formal dining rooms, consider adding a privacy lock for the room if it doubles as a workspace or study area.
Include the dining area in your Fortify Form for customized security recommendations.
5. Kitchen
The kitchen is one of the busiest areas in the home, where meals are prepared and family gatherings often occur. In many homes, the kitchen is adjacent to the dining area or living room.
Kitchen Considerations:
- Make sure that any windows in the kitchen are securely locked, especially if they are close to an entry point.
- If there’s a direct door to the garage or patio from the kitchen, ensure the door is locked and properly secured.
Don’t forget to include your kitchen in your Fortify Form.
6. Pantry
The pantry is a storage space for food and kitchen supplies, typically located adjacent to the kitchen. It’s usually a small room but can also be a large walk-in area.
Pantry Considerations:
- While the pantry doesn’t require heavy security, it’s important to ensure that the door functions well, especially if it leads to an exterior space like the garage.
If your home has a pantry, make sure to include it in your Fortify Form.
7. Bedroom
Bedrooms are private spaces where residents sleep and relax. Ensuring the privacy and security of bedrooms is crucial for overall home security.
Bedroom Considerations:
- Secure bedroom windows with locks or coverings to maintain privacy.
- Install privacy locks on bedroom doors for added protection and peace of mind.
If your home has bedrooms, be sure to note them in your Fortify Form.
8. Closet
Closets are used for storing clothes, shoes, and other personal belongings. Some homes have walk-in closets, while others have smaller spaces attached to bedrooms or hallways.
Closet Considerations:
- While closets don’t typically need security, walk-in closets storing valuables may benefit from a lock.
Make sure to include all closets in your Fortify Form.
9. Bathroom
The bathroom is another essential space that requires privacy. In most homes, bathrooms are located near bedrooms or in common areas.
Bathroom Considerations:
- Install privacy locks on bathroom doors to ensure privacy for occupants.
- If the bathroom has windows, secure them with locks or frosted glass for privacy.
Include the bathroom in your Fortify Form to ensure proper privacy measures.
10. Laundry Room
A laundry room is dedicated to washing and drying clothes. This space may be located near the kitchen, basement, or garage.
Laundry Room Considerations:
- If your laundry room has a window or external door, ensure that it is locked and secured.
- Laundry rooms connected to the garage should have a sturdy lock on the door.
If your home has a laundry room, make sure to include it in your Fortify Form.
11. Balcony/Patio
A balcony or patio provides outdoor living space and is often connected to the living room, bedroom, or kitchen.
Balcony/Patio Considerations:
- Ensure that the doors leading to the balcony or patio are secured with sliding door locks or other appropriate locking mechanisms.
- Consider adding lighting or security cameras to monitor this space.
If your home has a balcony or patio, be sure to include this in your Fortify Form.
12. Home Office/Study
The home office or study is a dedicated space for work or study, often located in a quiet area of the home. With the rise of remote work, securing this space has become increasingly important.
Home Office Considerations:
- Install a keyed entry lock on the home office door if sensitive materials or equipment are stored in the room.
- Consider adding a security system for additional protection.
If your home includes a home office or study, be sure to note this in your Fortify Form.
13. Family/Rec Room
The family room or recreation room is typically used for leisure activities and family gatherings. It’s often connected to the living room or basement.
Family/Rec Room Considerations:
- Ensure windows and doors in the family room are properly locked, especially if they lead to outdoor areas like the patio or balcony.
Include the family room in your Fortify Form for tailored security measures.
14. Hallway/Corridor
A hallway or corridor connects different rooms in the home. While they don’t usually require special security, they are important for accessibility and movement.
Hallway Considerations:
- Ensure any connected rooms have proper locks and security measures.
- Keep hallways well-lit for safety and visibility.
Make sure to include hallways or corridors in your Fortify Form.
15. Garage
The garage is often used for parking vehicles or storing tools and equipment. It’s a key entry point for many homes, so it’s important to secure it properly.
Garage Considerations:
- Ensure the garage door is equipped with a sturdy lock, such as a deadbolt or smart lock.
- Install motion-activated lights or security cameras near the garage.
Be sure to include the garage in your Fortify Form.
16. Basement
The basement is often used for storage, laundry, or recreational space. It may also have a direct entry point to the outside, making security important.
Basement Considerations:
- Secure any external doors or windows in the basement with proper locks.
- Consider installing a security system to monitor this often-remote area.
Include the basement in your Fortify Form.
17. Loft
A loft is an elevated space, often used for a bedroom, office, or extra living area. It may have an open-concept design or be closed off with walls.
Loft Considerations:
- Secure any windows or doors in the loft area.
- Ensure that the loft is well-lit and that any connected spaces are accessible.
If your home has a loft, make sure to include it in your Fortify Form.